Songs that are randomly even better than “Castaways” by The Backyardigans

If you’ve been on TikTok in the last month, there’s no way you haven’t heard the app’s most recent banger — “Castaways” by The Backyardigans. There’s just something about that song.

I genuinely respect the hype surrounding “Castaways” — I do. But I think there’s some other hidden jams we don’t talk about enough, so what better time than the present? 

“Trudge, Trudge, Trudge” by The Backyardigans

If you like “Castaways,” you better buckle up, because “Trudge, Trudge, Trudge”  is a million times better. This song is so fire it physically hurts me. I always tell my friends this — saxophones elevate any song they’re thrown into — and of course this Grammy-deserving bop features some spectacular saxophone moments. Also, the key change near the end is absolutely impeccable.

Move over, “Castaways,” this song is your worst nightmare.

The “Max and Ruby” Theme Song

Sure, the song just repeats the words “Max and Ruby,” but I really couldn’t care less when it sounds this good. It’s easy to remember, it sticks with you and it gets the point across. The show is about Max and Ruby, right? So what more do you need to know? It’s not lazy writing, it’s smart writing.

Randomly anything by Pitbull.

Mr. Worldwide immediately transports me back to middle school dances, but I’m totally cool with it. Seventh grade me was living it up — trading Silly Bandz, getting dropped off at Menchie’s, going to classes that were just named after the subject (English 7, social studies 6) — how cute. From “Fireball” to “Timber,” there’s nothing this man can’t do. I also know all the lyrics to “Time of Our Lives” and have no clue when or why that happened.

“Ain’t Got Rhythm” from “Phineas and Ferb”

Indie pop meets summer camp in this masterpiece, and I’m here for it. Everyone always talks about “Squirrels in my Pants,” which is a mistake. The slamming library books, tapping pencils and Phineas’ iconic little voice come together to make the most elite song on Earth.

“I Just Can’t Wait to be King” from “The Lion King”

Simba’s vocals are truly superb in this one. The jungle vibes are everything you’ll need this summer on your way to the beach. Honestly, this movie’s entire soundtrack cannot be topped — this song has been in my Top 100 on Spotify for five years straight, and I am honored.

“Stayin Alive” by the Bee Gees

I could spend the rest of my life listening to this for literally no reason at all — I feel like I’m flying when I hear this song. I remember the first time I heard it, too. My dance teacher turned it on for warmups and all the other kids were unphased, but not me. I know greatness when I hear it. Props to the Bee Gees.

Well, there you go. I’ve just named five songs and Mr. 305’s entire career, and they’re all better than “Castaways.” No hard feelings, just facts.